Trafalgar Square (Starlings)

Oral Answers to Questions — Ministry of Works – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 27 Tachwedd 1956.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Anthony Hurd Mr Anthony Hurd , Newbury 12:00, 27 Tachwedd 1956

asked the Minister of Works what action he is taking this winter to dislodge the starlings that roost round Trafalgar Square and foul the monuments and pavements.

Photo of Mr Patrick Buchan-Hepburn Mr Patrick Buchan-Hepburn , Beckenham

Experiments with a loudspeaker device are continuing. But even if these were successful, which I am bound to say is unlikely, the cost of a full installation would be very great. I am afraid I see no prospect at present of finding an effective method of dislodging the starlings which is both humane and economical.

Photo of Mr Anthony Hurd Mr Anthony Hurd , Newbury

If my right hon. Friend does not see much hope of effective help from the scientists, would he consider calling in aid the sparrowhawk or the owl?

Photo of Mr Patrick Buchan-Hepburn Mr Patrick Buchan-Hepburn , Beckenham

I do not think I could control the sparrowhawk or the owl, and if it were a stuffed one I think the starlings would get used to it quite soon.

Photo of Mr Marcus Lipton Mr Marcus Lipton , Lambeth Brixton

Could not the Government persuade these birds to spend the winter in Port Said or Jamaica?